Mad Men's Teyonah Parris opened up about her character, Dawn's, surprising promotion, how she can't seem to let go of her loyalty to her boss Don and getting mixed up with the only other African American employee at the SC&P office.

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During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter earlier this month, Parris revealed that her role on the show depended on whether Don would return to SC&P.

"I found out when I was asked to even come in and read a script. I had no assurance. I had to wait like any other time. I was like, 'Lord, please let Don come back to the office!"

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She also spoke on the bond her character, Dawn, and her office BFF Shirley built while being the only African American employees at SC&P. In one scene the two joked about their co-workers not being able to tell them apart and even called each other the other one's name.

Parris said, "How are people mixing them up? Shirley has an Afro and the shortest dress that anyone has ever seen. That skirt was almost not safe for work, but she did look cute in it. Just to see them next to each other, and the people still mixing them up, it's pretty hilarious. But it really happens."

Still, Dawn was definitely noticed and ended up getting promoted and becoming the new Joan. Parris confessed she didn't see the good news coming.

"I had to read the end four times just to make sure I knew what was happening. I asked Matt during the table read, 'Does this mean what I think it means?' And he said, 'Yes, you're the new Joan.' At least for this episode."

She also spoke on Dawn's loyalty to Don as his longest running secretary. She said his decision to defend her in several issues definitely play a factor, as well as her just being a loyal person.

"That's just who she is, to stand by him when he's down."

Mad Men airs Sundays at 10/9c on AMC.

Tags: Mad Men AMC tv